MYANGLUNG: Minister for Urban Development, Sita Gurung, has said youth-focused programs are essential to address unemployment and retain youths within villages.

Addressing the 12th municipal convention of Myanglung municipality, Tehrathum, Minister Gurung said, “Villagers are deserted with youths’ exodus.”

She said youths are leaving villages for lack of essential facilities as drinking water, road, electricity and employment and that all three tiers of governments must coordinate and cooperate to ensure youth entrepreneurship.

Similarly, the Minister said political parties and people’s representatives could also extend support to enhance quality education at community schools.

Minister Gurung is scheduled to lay foundation stones to various infrastructures being built under the ministry in the district.